The issue of
metal release from
stainless steel bone plates has gained considerable momentum advocating the removal of
stainless steel miniplates after healing of fracture. So far no study has been published in the literature regarding
metal release with the indigenously manufactured
stainless steel miniplates.Objective Aim of the study was to find any pathological changes at cellular and ultracellular levels and
metal particles in the soft tissue surrounding the
stainless steel miniplates.Method Retrieval of indigenous
stainless steel implants, used in treatment of
jaw fractures, samples of surrounding soft tissue were histopathologically assessed for tissue response as well as
metal release, using light microscope and Transmitted Electron Microscope (TEM).Result Light microscopic examination revealed chronic
inflammation in symptomatic cases, but TEM did not show any significant pathological alteration and
metal deposits even in cases with clinically observed pigmentation. Short-term (upto 1 year) retention of
stainless steel mini plates will not cause any significant local complications.